Mount Temple pupils celebrate school’s Blue Star Flag success

There were celebrations at An Grianán NS in Mount Temple this month as Ms Killian's third class marked its success in the Blue Star programme for the third consecutive year.

The Blue Star Flag was officially raised on June 9 by Minister Kevin 'Boxer' Moran and MEP Maria Walsh, alongside third class pupils Elle McCormack and Liam Donnelly who represented the class in their roles as 'Wellbeing Warriors'.

The Blue Star programme is an education initiative for primary school pupils which is designed to help foster better understanding and knowledge of the European Union and how it affects the lives of Irish citizens.

The pupils played a central role throughout the Blue Star flag event. Ciara Dolan and Liam Cleary (both are Student Council Representatives) recited heartfelt thank-you poems for Maria Walsh, MEP, and Minister Moran, expressing the appreciation of the class for the political representatives' support and attendance.

Millie Rigney, Green Flag representative, shared ten interesting facts about Ireland's membership of the European Union, while Shay Hoey, also a Green Flag representative, warmly welcomed guests and recited 'The Tilly Lamp', adding a special touch to the ceremony.

Entertainment was provided by the talented pupils of third class. Grace Cleary and Ciara Dolan delighted the audience with a display of Irish dancing, while the class performed a selection of traditional Irish tunes on a wide variety of musical instruments. The pupils also played 'Ode to Joy', the European Anthem, which was greatly appreciated by all in attendance, while Eva McCormack sang a lovely rendition of 'Caledonia'.

A number of parents from third class joined the celebrations, making the occasion even more special for the pupils. The event showcased not only the children's knowledge of Europe but also their many talents and confidence in speaking and performing before an audience.

As part of their Blue Star Programme work this year, the pupils completed extensive studies of a number of European Union countries, learning about their geography, culture, traditions, languages and history.

They also undertook an in-depth study of Clonmacnoise, exploring the rich heritage and significance of one of Ireland's most important monastic sites. The projects produced by the pupils were of an exceptionally high standard, and all of the VIP visitors who visited the classroom throughout the year commented on the quality, creativity and attention to detail displayed in the children's work.

The Blue Star flag ceremony was another highlight in what has been a remarkable year for Ms Killian's Third Class. The pupils have welcomed a number of other distinguished visitors to their classroom, including Ministers Peter Burke and Robert Troy, TD Carol Nolan, MEP Nina Carberry and local councillors John Dolan and Tom Farrell.

The class has also enjoyed some unique educational opportunities. Following a letter written by the pupils, Minister Moran organised a trip to Clonmacnoise, while Minister Peter Burke invited the class to visit Dáil Éireann, providing them with valuable insights into Irish history, heritage and politics.

Adding to the celebrations, Ms Killian was recently recognised nationally when she received the Blue Star Teacher Spotlight Award for April, acknowledging her outstanding work in promoting European education and engagement.

Ms Killian said she would like to sincerely thank all the parents and the SNAs in third class for their wonderful support and assistance with the various projects completed throughout the year. She said their encouragement, enthusiasm and help contributed greatly to the success of the pupils' work and learning experiences.